HC Deb 27 June 1939 vol 349 cc202-3
40. Mr. Bracken

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has now decided to extend the insurance benefits conferred on militiamen and members of the Army Reserve who are in insurable occupations to the small traders and others in non-insurable occupations who, during their period of compulsory service, may lose the connections on which their earning-power depends?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

I cannot add anything at present to the statements I made on the subject during the Debate,

Mr. Bracken

Will my right hon. Friend undertake to investigate the harm done to small traders, who are not being properly treated in relation to the employés of chain stores?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Yes, Sir. In response to what was suggested in Debate, an inquiry is already proceeding. It is not very far advanced and I cannot say any more at the present moment.

Sir Percy Harris

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the circumstances of the street traders and the way in which they are adversely affected, making them a special problem on their own?

Mr. Wedgwood Benn

I assume that the inquiry is in accordance with the promise made by the Prime Minister? Will the results be communicated to the House?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Most certainly.

Mr. Gallacher

Would the right hon. Gentleman consult with the Minister of Labour and advise him how to answer a question on the same subject which I have addressed to him?